New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1887-07-03
4 REPRESENTATIVE AMERICAN ABROAD

4 REPRESENTATIVE AMERICAN ABROAD.
Mr. Blaine went abroad for rest and recrc-
alton. He had earned long holiday by many
months Of continuous literary work and many
years of arduous political service. Without
forming definite plans for European travel.
he was bent upon enjoying himself in his own
way. Social life has always possessed pecu-
liar attractions for him; and when he found
his table covered with invitations to meet the
most prominent people in London. he was not
reluctant to accept hospitality that was most
cordially offered. Our London correspondent
bears testimony to the unusual character Of tho
social distinctions which have been showered
upon him and to the favorable impression
which he has made wherever he has been entcr-
tanned. An accomplished man. thoroughly at
case in drawing-room. remarkable for tact
and refinement of courtesy. could not fail TO
derive pleasure from these social experiences
nor could he avoid charming his entertainers
and new acquaintance in return. London So
ciety was strongly prejudiced against him.
since he was generally regarded not only as an
incorporating American but also as Tor
midable political opponent of England and its
economic system and an outspoken champion
of Irish rights. Wherever he has gone he has
been respected as a brilliant American OF gen.
uinc force of character, and so quickly has
prejudice been dsarmed that our London
correspondent already records the fact thai
no American not holding an Official position
has been more warmly received or so much
liked and admired.
Mr.. Blaine undoubtedly has II within his
power to render his foreign journey perma-
ncntly useful to his own country. Not the
least among General Grants services to the
Nation was the opportunity offered to distin-
cushcd men in European courts and capitals
Of studying the character OF genuine Ameri-
can who had won the highest distinctions in
military and civil life. His personal dignity.
unaffected simplicity Of manner and keen.
practical Judgment of men and affairs enabled
all who met him TO discern moro accurately
the essential qualities Of American manhood
and the ruling forces of American civilization.
Mr.. Blaine, without the adventitious aid OF
military reputation or two Presidential terms.
can perform a similar service. He too, is o
representative American, with unrivalled ex-
pcricnce in political affairs and practical ac-
ouaintance with the resources Of American
civilization. No one else is so well equipped
for defence Of the protective system under
which American material progress has become
the marvel of the modern world. No other
American has so keen a discernment OF tho
political and economic forces of our complex
national lfe No other American has so pro-
found faith in the genius OF the people and IN
the democratic tendencies Of modern civiliza-
ton. Lord Salisbury, Mr.. Gladstone Mr.
Goschen, Lord Roscbery, and other leaders
l. l;ek 10 70 no how Mr.
and talked freely with him. have seen an
American Of the Americans. II the personal
impression which he has everywhere made is
very great it is because the essential fibre OF
American manhood is inwrought with all his
social cruces and destinations OF manner.
One of the first invitations accepted by MIR.
Blaine in England came from Mr.. Gladstone.
with whom he is in hearty sympathy on ques-
tons of Irish policy. With characteristic good
sense however, the visitor has refrained from
discriminating between political factions. lie
has found pleasure in meeting representatives
Of every school Of thought. including Lord
Salisbury, Mr.. Goschen and Mr.. Chamberlain
on the Unionist side and all the leaders of
Her Majesty's Opposition on the osher While
he is travelling as private citizen he Is
known rs the popular leader OF one OF tho
great American parties in the last Presidential
canvass. and good taste and sound Judgment
preclude the obtrusion of his views on polit-
ical questions now exciting acrimonious feel
ing in England. As leader of men and o
student Of contemporaneous history he kecnly
enjoys the privilege OF meeting socially tho
most intellectual people in the English cap
ital and they in turn find much to interest
tban, and rnuch In like and admire in this
representative American citizen.
RIGHTS And DUTIES